U.S. to increase aid for drought areas
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The federal government is making available up to $50 million in drought relief funds for Western states, with the largest portion earmarked for parched California, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell and Gov. Jerry Brown announced Friday.
The additional funding includes about $20 million for the Central Valley Water Project for efforts such as water transfers, drought monitoring for endangered species and diversifying water supplies. California is entering its fourth year of drought.
Alaska considering civics-class bill
JUNEAU, Alaska – Alaska lawmakers are considering a bill that would require school districts to teach American constitutionalism, the latest of several state government measures across the U.S. aimed at civics education.
Alaska’s House Education Committee heard Friday from members of the public who supported the bill, including some educators.
Bob Bird, who teaches constitutional law at Nikiski High School, said students need more constitutional instruction.
The Republican-led bill would require Alaska high school students to study the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, the U.S. Constitution, the Articles of Confederation and the Federalist Papers.
Associated Press
